Dodgy multipoint lock?

[fenzi]

I have a problem with my front uPVC door, the handle cannot be used to open the door as the latch in the door will not retract. The handle can be moved down however nothing actually happens.

The only way I can open the door is to use the key, if I turn it as if to open the door and hold it, the latch goes into the door and allows me to open the door.

Strangely though, I can lift the handle to lock the door and it will lock no problem.

Any advice on how I can sort this please, or what might be wrong? I can't open the door without using the key at all.

Thanks

 

[crank39]

Does the inner handle retract the latch or is the key required still?

 

[fenzi]

When turned about halfway, it retracts about 2mm and stays there. If I turn it beyond that, it clicks and as though it slips and comes back out again. Nothing happens when using the outer handle.

The key is needed on both sides, when turned anticlockwise and held back, the door just swings open and no need to move the handle.

Thanks for the swift reply

 

[crank39]

If you need to use the key on the outside to retract the latch but on the inside the lever is used then you have a split spindle mechanism with a lever/pad handle (i'm guessing), its this way to stop undesirables opening your door from outside by just pushing the lever down, effectively they need the key, just like a yale lock.

Not quite sure whats happening with the clicking latch though, sounds as though the mechanism is busted to be honest